Best Lower Order Batting Performances in Men’s T20 World Cup

In the high-octane world of T20 cricket, the performances of finishers and lower-order batsmen often fly under the radar compared to the glitz and glamor of top-order fireworks. However, their contributions can be crucial in tilting the balance of the game. The T20 World Cup has witnessed some extraordinary best lower order batting feats that have turned certain defeats into victories. Here, we celebrate five of the most outstanding performances by batsmen coming in at No. 6 or lower.

David Miller – 59*(51)

David Miller’s heroic effort against the Netherlands in the 2024 T20 World Cup was a testament to his grit and experience. The Nassau County Cricket Club pitch in New York was a bowler’s paradise, with South Africa struggling at 12/4 while chasing a modest target of 104. The Dutch, who had previously caused an upset by eliminating South Africa from the T20 World Cup, were on the verge of repeating their feat.

Miller, in collaboration with Tristan Stubbs, orchestrated a rescue operation, putting together a vital 65-run partnership. Despite the pressure and losing Stubbs and Marco Jansen with runs still needed, Miller’s calm and composed 59* ensured South Africa crossed the finish line, exemplifying the importance of experienced finishers in T20 cricket.

Michael Hussey – 60*(24)

Michael Hussey

Michael Hussey’s explosive unbeaten 60 off just 24 balls against Pakistan in the 2010 T20 World Cup semifinal has become a legendary moment in cricket history. Chasing a daunting target of 192, Australia found themselves in dire straits at 105/5. With 87 runs required from 45 balls, the match seemed all but over for the Aussies.

Hussey, however, had other plans. His innings were a masterclass in T20 finishing, as he targeted Pakistan’s bowlers with clinical precision. Hussey’s assault reached its zenith in the final over, where he dispatched Saeed Ajmal for three sixes to secure an improbable victory with a ball to spare.

Misbah-ul-Haq – 66*(42)

Misbah-ul-Haq

In the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007, Misbah-ul-Haq emerged as Pakistan’s savior in multiple instances, none more so than his unbeaten 66* against Australia. Chasing 165, Pakistan was tottering at 46/4 when Misbah joined Shoaib Malik. The duo steadied the ship with a 119-run partnership, ensuring a five-wicket victory with five balls to spare.

Sherfane Rutherford – 69*(38)

Sherfane Rutherford

Sherfane Rutherford’s scintillating 69* off 38 balls against New Zealand in the 2024 T20 World Cup was a game-changing performance. After a heavy defeat to Afghanistan, New Zealand needed a win to stay in contention for the Super-Eight. They were in a commanding position, reducing the West Indies to 30/5.

Rutherford, however, engineered a remarkable turnaround. With crucial contributions from Andre Russell and Romario Shepherd, Rutherford took charge at 112/9. He unleashed a brutal assault on Daryl Mitchell and Mitchell Santner, propelling the West Indies to a competitive total of 150. New Zealand’s chase faltered, and they succumbed to a 13-run defeat, largely due to Rutherford’s heroic innings.

Cameron White – 85*(49)

Cameron White

Cameron White’s explosive 85* off 49 balls against Sri Lanka in the 2010 T20 World Cup stands as one of the finest lower-order batting displays in the tournament’s history. Australia was in trouble at 67/5, needing a substantial contribution from the lower middle order to post a defendable total.

White’s counter-attacking innings was a masterstroke, featuring six fours and six sixes. His powerful hitting took Australia to 168/5, a total that proved insurmountable for Sri Lanka, who were bowled out for a mere 87.